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Definition of CPAP

By Brandon Peters, M.D., About.com

Created: February 12, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: This primary treatment of sleep apnea works to keep the upper airway open by providing a constant flow of air delivered through a face mask worn while sleeping. The pressure is prescribed at a certain level and is produced by a small machine and delivered through plastic hosing to the mask.
Also Known As: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Examples: It took time to get used to it, but CPAP has changed my life.
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